MV Barima Tragedy: Gov’t pledges tough action as passenger manifest was wrong and two crew members tested positive for narcotics

Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has revealed that some of the people rescued after the MV Barima capsized were not officially listed as passengers, and two of the crew members tested positive for narcotics.

These initial findings have prompted an urgent and wide-ranging investigation into the tragedy.

Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday night, Phillips said the inquiry would examine every aspect of the incident.

“The investigation will examine all of the facts and circumstances of this tragedy, including the accuracy of the manifest, the loading of cargo, compliance with maritime safety regulations, and the conduct of the captain and crew before and during the voyage.

“Where negligence or criminal wrongdoing is established, those responsible will face the full force of the law,” he said.

President Irfaan Ali, on business in Canada, has spoken to the captain.

The MV Barima capsized late on Saturday night while en route to Port Kaituma.

By Sunday morning, the government said 67 of the 133 people officially recorded on board had been rescued. The vessel’s manifest listed 116 passengers and 17 crew members.

Several survivors have since been reunited with their families.

Only three of those rescued remain hospitalised but there condition is stable and they are expected to be released from hospital care soon.